Streetsnaps: Spinall
Going for a spin with one of Africa’s most celebrated DJs and producers.
Streetsnaps: Spinall
Going for a spin with one of Africa’s most celebrated DJs and producers.
Spinall has a way of making you feel special. Whether it’s his infectious tracks like “Sere” and “Dis Love” or his kind generosity, the acclaimed Nigerian DJ and producer doesn’t shy away from spreading joy and uplifting spirits for anyone.
Dressed in a WHO DECIDES War denim jacket, a Casablanca white tee, and Jordan Brand pants, Spinall makes his way down the streets of New York brimming with self-assurance. Tying his fit together is a pair from the Off-White™ x Nike Dunk Low “The 50” pack, but what stands out the most is his Ankara cap with traditional African patterns – a signature part of his everyday look.
To his most devoted fans, Spinall has been an anchor within the Afrobeats game. Having first cut his teeth behind DJ booths throughout high school and university, the beatmaker witnessed different phases of the genre enough to perfect a huge catalog of hit singles and albums. Now, he’s consistently taking center stage across Africa, North America, and Europe.
In a scene where DJs are often unsung heroes, Spinall not only understands the hustle and grind but also the importance of collaboration. His last full-length record from 2020, Grace, exemplified his uncanny ability to enlist talent in spaces where they are truly celebrated. Icons like Wizkid, Fireboy DML, Oxlade, Omah Lay and Tiwa Savage appeared once more on his ever-growing roster that already included Burna Boy, Davido, Mr Eazi and other legends from previous star-studded projects.
“My goal is always to have [fellow Nigerian DJs] at my shows so we can all see what’s happening to our music and hopefully recognize our place in it.”
While he brings some of the world’s favorite artists together, Spinall works much harder to ensure DJs are given their flowers. “There are a lot of successful DJs back home, even some amazing Nigerian ones here in the US,” he observed. “My goal is always to have them around at my shows so we can all see what’s happening to our music and hopefully recognize our place in it.”
Through his TheCAPMusic initiative – a name that pays homage to his Ankara caps – Spinall combines his music and business acumen to bolster local talent on the decks. A result of that is a small but growing academy that currently mentors six different DJs and producers. Having been a veteran in the field for quite some time, he is no stranger to the ups and downs of the industry and only hopes that he can “help them be better versions of themselves” by sharing his knowledge. Most importantly, he never ceases to stress to them that “having the courage, tenacity, and hard work differs from just being passionate about something.”
As he wraps up his sixth studio album before the end of the year, Spinall remains a force to be reckoned with. “It’s probably going to be the best introduction to Afrobeats,” he claims, leaving many eagerly wondering what more he has up his sleeve. One thing is clear, however, as he continues to build his legacy, Spinall has the Afrobeats world at his fingertips.